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Find A Cosmetic Dentist to Fix Chipped Or Cracked Teeth With Dental Bonding

The term "dental bonding" describes a dental procedure that is used for various purposes. Tooth-colored composite resins are applied to teeth for cosmetic reasons, to repair cracked and chipped teeth, protect exposed tooth roots against decay, or restore decayed teeth.

What Are Some Of The Benefits Of Dental Bonding?

• For cosmetic purposes, dental bonding can dramatically improve your smile by closing gaps, masking stains caused by coffee, tea, tobacco, or medications as well as repairing cracks or chips resulting from accidents.
• These tooth-colored composites are well suited for protecting exposed tooth roots caused by gum recession. Tooth roots are covered by dentin that is more susceptible to decay. Tooth bonding helps prevent decay in this area as well as eliminate sensitivity to hot and cold resulting from tooth root exposure.
• Since composite materials can match the color of your own teeth, dental bonding is preferred for filling cavities in the front teeth or wherever else they may be visible.
• Dental bonding does not last as long as porcelain veneers, but it also is not as costly.

What's Involved In The Dental Bonding Procedure?

Usually the process is completed during one visit to your cosmetic dentist and doesn't require drilling or anesthesia. First, your tooth is prepared with an etching solution to help the dental bonding materials adhere.

Next, the resin is applied and contoured to the proper shape, then cured with either a special light or chemical treatment. The tooth is then polished for a natural-looking appearance. A follow-up appointment with your dentist may be recommended for additional polishing.

How Do I Care For My Teeth After Dental Bonding?

While the dental bonding materials are very durable, they still can chip and may need to be replaced periodically. Avoid excessive pressure such as chewing ice, hard candy or unpopped popcorn kernels. Dental bonding materials are susceptible to staining from tobacco, coffee, tea and berries. Alcohol and acid-containing foods such as vinegar, tomatoes or pineapple can damage the resin.

Regular dental check-ups are important for maintaining good dental health and natural-looking teeth.

By Danine M. Fresch, DDS

+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.

Cosmetic Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry, The Dental Crown And The Gold Crown

In restorative dentistry a dental crown, or caps for teeth, look and function just like natural teeth. Your cosmetic dentist may recommend a dental crown if your tooth has enough decay that it cannot hold a filling, or if your tooth is cracked or broken and in danger of cracking down into the root if left unattended. A dental crown covers your tooth completely. It fits snugly at the gum and protects what remains of the natural tooth.

Why Have A Dental Crown?

The dental crown serves two important functions. First, it restores the appearance of your teeth and your face. If your tooth is severely decayed or cracked, your cosmetic dentist will need to restore it prior to preparing a cap. Teeth also support the muscles in our faces, so anything less than a full tooth may affect the way you smile.

Second, a dental crown will be the same size and shape as the natural tooth. As a result, it will keep your jaw and bite aligned; it will also make sure that other teeth don't shift locations or take on a greater share of the work of biting and chewing.

What Is a Dental Crown Made of?

A dental crown is most often made of gold or porcelain. A dental crown also can be made of stainless steel, but those are often temporary and not designed for long-term wear.

A porcelain dental crown is usually built on a metal base, which fits snugly over the natural tooth. Your dentist will choose a porcelain that matches the color of your natural teeth. A porcelain dental crown is usually so carefully matched in color, it cannot be distinguished from your natural teeth. Many people choose porcelain dental crowns for the cosmetic appearance and the confidence it give them.

New materials are now available in cosmetic dentistry that allow your cosmetic dentist to use an "all-ceramic" dental crown in some cases. They have a beautiful life-like appearance and short-term studies support their success, with long-term trials ongoing.

A dental crown can be made of all gold. Some people prefer not to use a gold crown because it stands out from the other teeth in appearance. At the same time, if the gold crown is on a back molar, some people feel the cosmetic issue is not a big one. Your cosmetic dentist will discuss the types of materials available if a gold crown is recommended.

An Ounce of Prevention Is Still the Rule!

Once your dental crown is in place, make sure the area is brushed well and that you floss below the gum line. While the dental crown protects your remaining tooth from further decay, you must protect the base of the dental crown from bacterial growth and gum disease. Regular brushing and flossing as you would your natural teeth will ensure that your crown will be in place for years to come!

Your Gold Crown is not just royal jewelry for your mouth!

by Danine M. Fresch, DDS

+Jim Du Molin is a leading Internet search expert helping individuals and families connect with the right dentist in their area. Visit his author page.